Ghana’s hopes in the African inter-club competitions were dashed when both Samartex and Nsoatreman FC, despite their best efforts, were eliminated from their tournaments on Saturday. It was a disappointing outcome for the clubs and their fans.
Samartex’s CAF Champions League Exit
Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca ended Samartex’s CAF Champions League journey with a 2-0 win in the second leg. With this loss, Raja secured a 4-2 aggregate victory and advanced to the group stage, leaving Samartex to concentrate on their domestic campaign.
Samartex’s 2-2 draw in the first leg in Accra gives them hope of a surprising victory in Morocco. Nevertheless, Raja’s Marouane Zila scored just before halftime, and despite the Timber Boys’ determined efforts led by coach Nurudeen Amadu, they were unable to find a way through. Naoufel Zerhouni’s 88th-minute goal sealed Samartex’s fate, marking the end of their debut campaign in Africa’s premier club competition.
Despite the defeat, the club remains optimistic and took to social media to express this, highlighting the lessons learned for future improvement.
Nsoatreman’s CAF Confederation Cup Exit
Nsoatreman FC, the current holders of Ghana’s FA Cup, suffered a 1-0 loss to CS Constantine in Algeria, leading to their elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup. The outcome confirmed a 3-0 total defeat, as Constantine had achieved a 2-0 victory in the initial match in Accra.
Nsoatreman, who had trouble capitalizing on their chances in the first leg, found themselves trailing in the second leg after Zakaria Benchaa scored in the 19th minute. Constantine’s dominance prevented Nsoatreman from making a comeback. Despite giving it their all, the Ghanaians couldn’t penetrate the defense of the Algerian side, concluding their inaugural African campaign.
Both clubs’ focus will now shift to their domestic competitions. Samartex will face Bibiani Gold Stars and Medeama SC in their upcoming Ghana Premier League matches. At the same time, Nsoatreman will strive to defend their FA Cup title or compete for the Premier League, hoping to secure another opportunity for continental football next season.